Electric switch.



No. 668,662. Patented Feb. 26, l90l.

J. H. SPANGLE B.

ELECTRIC SWITCH.

(Applicntion filed Fqb. 21, 1900.)

' 6 ShaetsSheet I.

(No Model.)

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No. 668,662. Patented Feb. 26, I901. .1. H. SPANGLER,

'E-IL'EBT'RIG 'sw-i-Tc-u;

(Application filed Feb. 21, 1900.) (No Model.) 6 Sheets-Sheet 3.

WITNESSES INVENTOR ATTORNEYS.

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No. 668,662. Patented Feb. 26, IBM.

J. H. SPANGLER. au-zcrmc'swncu.

(Application filed Feb. 21. 1900.)

(No Model.)

6-Sheets-Sheet 4 INVENTOR JZJLnH 5 ATTORNEYS.

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No. 668,662. Patented Feb. 26, I90l.

J. H. SPANGLER. v

ELEGTRIG swncn. (Application md Feb. 21, 1900. (No Model.) Y aSheets$haet 5.

INVENTOR JoJuLJi. 5

ATTORNEYS.

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Patented Feb. 26, l90l.

J. H. SPANGLER. euzcrmc swmm.

[Applicatidh filed Feb. 21, 1900.

6 Sheets-Sheet 6.

(No Model.)

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JOHN H. SPANGLER, OF PITTSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA;

ELECTRIC SWITCH.

SPECIFICATION formingpart of Letters Patent No. 668,662, dated February26, 196i.

Application filed February 21, 1900. snn No. 6,061. (No model.)

To all whom it may concern:

Be it known that I, J OHN H. SPANGLER, a citizen of the United States ofAmerica, residing at Pittsburg, in the county of Allegheny and State ofPennsylvania,' have invented certain new and useful Improvements inElectric Switches, of which the following, is a specification, referencebeing had therein to the accompanying drawings- The herein-describedinvention relates to; certain new and useful improvements inelectrically-operated switches, and is more particularly adapted to beemployed for operating street-railway switches.

The present invention has for its object to construct aswitch-operatingmechanism connected to the ordinary switch-tongue that will be undercontrol of the motorman of the car and one that will assure a free andeasy operation of the switch-tongue to either open or close the switch,as desired; furthermore, to provide novel means to permit theswitchtongue to remain in an inoperative position as the car traversesover the switch in case the switch-tongue has been previously placed inproper position.

My invention further aims to construct an electrically-operated switchmechanism of the above-referred-to class wherein any special mechanismor attachments to the car are entirely dispensed with, therebysimplifying the construction and obtaining advantages that will behereinafter more particularly pointed out.

The invention further aims to provide the switch tongue operatingmechanism with yielding connections to pre vent the operation of theswitch-tongue when the same is obstructed by a hard substance, therebyproviding means that will permit the switchtongue-operating mechanism toyield, preventing the breakage of the parts or throwing the mechanismout of adjustment.

Furthermore, the invention contemplates constructing the switch tongueoperating mechanism and yielding connections in such a manner that theclogging of the switchtongue, caused by sliow,sleet, mud,or the like,

will not prove an impediment tothe successful operation of theswitch-tongue, but, on the contrary, will offer suflicient resistanceand power to remove and automatically clean the switch from obstructionsof the character tongue, thereby causing theelectric current toshort-circuit in damp weather. It is through the novel construction andparticular arrangement of the various parts that I overcome theabove-referred-to objectionable features, as will be hereinafter moreparticularly described, and specifically pointed out in the claims.

My invention broadly consists of the interposition of a circuit-breakerin the trolleywire at a convenient point before the switchtongue isreached and arranging the overhead wires in such a manner that when thepower is applied at the controller when the trolley-Wheel is in contactwith the circuitbreaker the switch-tongue will automatically operate;and my invention further consists in allowing the switch-tongue toremain in an inoperative position as the trolley is allowed to driftover the contact between the circuit-breakers without power or byapplying only a smallvoltage, that will allow the car to pass thecircuit-breaker Without operating the switch-tongue. 4

My invention further consists in the novel arrangement of the electromagn ets and means.

interposed between said magnets and switchthrowing mechanism whereby theinstantaneous action of the current is checked and a more gradualoperation of the switch-tongue obtained.

My invention still further consists in the novelconstruction,combination,and arrangement of parts, to be hereinaftermore fully described, and specifically pointed out in the claims.

In describing the invention in detail reference is bad to theaccompanying drawings,

forming apart of this specification, and wherein like numerals ofreference indicate views, in which Figure 1 is a top plan view of aportion of the main and switch sections of a railwaytrack, showing thearrangementof my switchoperating device. Fig. 2 is a front elevationshowing the arrangement of my mechanism above and below the surface ofthe street and also showing a transverse vertical section of arailway-track at the junction of the switchtongue. Fig. 3 isasideelevation of the same. Fig. 4 is a front view of the arrangement of theelectromagnets and the casings carrying the operating-cable. Fig. 5 is aside elevation thereof, partly broken away, with portions in verticalsection. Fig. 6 is a transverse vertical sectional view of the casing,showing the arrangement of the switchtongue-operating mechanism in sideelevation. Fig. 7 is a top plan view of the switchtongue-operatingmechanism arranged in the casing with the cover removed. Fig. 8 is avertical sectional view of the casing, showing a rear elevation of theoperating mechanism therein. Fig. 9 is an enlarged vertical sectionalview of the air-cylinder and piston. Fig. 10 is a top plan view of thesame. Fig. 11 is a longitudinal sectional view thereof. Fig. 12 is adisassembled vertical sectional view of the piston. Fig. 13 is aperspective view of the piston.

Referring to the drawings by reference-numerals, 1, 2, 3, and 4 indicatethe supporting-poles for the guy-wires 5, to which is connected thetrolley-wire or electrical conductor 6 for supporting the same.

The reference-numerals 7 8 denote a pair of circuit-breakers secured tothe trolley-wire 6 and having the dead or circuit-breaking wire 9interposed between the same.

The reference-numeral 10 indicates a pair of brace-wires for thecircuit-breaker 8 and which are each provided with a suitable insulator11. The dead or circuit-breaking wire 9 is arranged above the mainsection 12 of the track adjacent to the switch-section l3 andswitch-tongue 14 and is connected at one end by means of the auxiliarycircuit-forming wire 15 to the magnets, which are connected to thefuse-box, to be hereinafter described. 16 denotes an auxiliary feed-wirebetween the fuse-box and trolley-wire 6.

The arrangement of the wires 9, 15, and 16 in the manner shown forms theswitch-throwing circuit when the trolley is in contact with the wire 9and the controller operated. This will be evident by the current passingupon the wire 16 to the fuse-box, to the magnets, then upon the wire 15to wire 9, through the trolley and controller to the ground.

The referencenumeral 17 denotes acircuitjumper which is connected ateach end, as at 17 and 17, to the trolley-wire 6, adjacent to the deador circuit-breaker wire 9.

The reference-numeral 18 indicates insulators suitably connected to thewires 5, 9, 15, and 16 and jumper 17.

To the pole 1, near the upper end thereof, is secured by means of theclamps 18 a fuse-box 19, connected by the wire conductor 20 to thesolenoid 21, arranged in an insulated casing 23, secured by the clamps23' to the pole 1 and supported upon the brackets 22, secured to theback of the casing 23. The solenoids are each provided with a core 24,connected at their lower end to the armature 25, to which is attachedthe upper end of the link 26, operating through the guide-yoke 27,supported upon the bottom of the casing.

Formed integral with or otherwise secured to the under face of thecasing 23 is an aircylinder 28, having the bottom thereof provided witha centrally-arranged screw-threaded opening registering with ascrew-threaded collar 29, in which is secured the upper end of thetubular casing 30, having arranged therein the adjusting means for theoperatingcable,to be hereinafter described. The lower end of the saidcasing is connected to the upper end of the tube 31, secured at itslower end to the top of the enlarged cylindrical casing32, containingmeans for mechanically operating the switch-tongue, to be hereinafterdescribed. The lower end of the casing 32 is connected by the tube 33 tothe one end of the elbowshaped casing 34. In the latter is journaled thepulley-wheel 35. Theopposite end of the casing 34 is connected by thetube 36 to the casing 37, secured to one side of the rectangular casing,in which is arranged the switch -tongue-operating mechanism. The saidcasing 37 has suitably journaled therein the pulley-wheel 38.

The reference-numeral 39 indicates the cable, chain, or rod foroperating the switchtongue-operating mechanism and is suitably connectedthereto. The cable, chain, or rod 39 passes out wardly through thecasing, carrying the sWitch-tongue-opcrating mechanism over thepulley-wheel 38, through the tube 36, over the pulley-wheel 35, throughthe tube 33, casing 32, tube 31, and into the casing 30 and is connectedto the lower end of the adjusting turnbuckle 39, while the upper end ofthe turnbuckle 39' is secured to the piston arranged in the air-cylinder28 and the former is suitably connected by the piston-rod 40 to the link26. Int-erposed between the upper end of the turnbuckle 39' and thepiston is an insulator 41.

The piston arranged in the air-cylinder 28 consists of a flexible cup42, mounted upon the piston-rod 40 and having the sides thereof upon itsupward movement frictionally engage the inner face of the cylinder. Thecup 42 is arranged upon the rod 40 between ,two metallic disks 43 44.These metallic disks are of a less diameter than the interior of thecylinder 28 and are secured in position against the flexible cup bymeans of the nuts 45. The cup and each of the disks are provided with aregistering opening or air-passage 46, closed on the upward stroke ofthe piston by means of the flap-valve 47, this valve being mounted uponthe upper face of the disk. The cylinder 28 is further provided with anexhaustvalve 47, secured to the same near the upper end thereof.

The switch-tongue-operating mechanism is arranged within a rectangularcasing48, provided with a removable cover 49 and an open-' ing 50 in oneend thereof, in which is secured a stuffing-box 51 for theswitch-tongue-operating rod 52, secured at its outer end, as at 53, tothe extension 54, which is or may be formed integral with the under faceof the switch-tongue 14. The rail-section is provided with a'transverseslot to permit of the operation of the extension 54 and further providedwith a recess 55' and the openings 56 56 to permit of the operation ofthe rod 52.

Mounted upon the bottom of the casing 48 are a pair ofsupporting-standards 57 57,each provided with an opening 58 in the upperportion thereof, and journaled in these standards 57 57 is a shaft 58,upon which is mounted the operating-wheel 59, provided with a series ofthrowing-lugs 60, arranged alternately upon each side of the wheel.Secured to one end of the shaft 58 is a ratchet-wheel 61 and anoperating-lever 62 therefor, carrying the pawl 63, retained in positionagainst the ratchets of the wheel 61 by means of the spring 64. Thelower end of the lever 62 is connected, by means of the link 65, carriedthereby, to the cable, chain, or rod 39, while the upper end of the saidlever 62 is pivotally secured to the rod 67, carrying thecompression-spring 68, both of which are mounted within and supported bythe adjustable yoke 69, secured at its outer end to the supporting lug70, connected to the side of the casing 48. The movement of the lever 62is limited by means of the adjusting stop-screws 71, arranged in thebrackets 72 73, secured upon the bottom of the casing 48.

The inner end of the rod 52 is connected to one end of the sleeve 74,provided at its opposite end with a flange 75, abutting against theflange 76 of the sliding collar 77, mounted upon the slotted portion 77. of the main throwing-rod 78. The rod 78 has'also mounted thereon asuitable distance from the collar 77 a sliding collar 79, provided witha flange 80, which is connected by means of the adjusting tie-rods 81 tothe flanges'75 76. Arranged between the tie-rods and surrounding thecollars 77 79 is a coiled butting-spring 82. Each of the collars 77 79is provided with a guidepin 83, operating in the slotted port-ion of therod '78. The inner end of the rod 78 terminates into a sliding yoke 84,carrying a pair of suitably-disposed antifriction-rollers 85 85, whichare engaged by the throwing-lugs 60. This yoke 84 operates within theopening 58 of the standards and is retained in position by theantifriction-rollers 86 87, which are rotatably mounted at the top ofthe standards and engage the upper face of the yoke. The lower wall ofthe opening 58 forms a bearing for the under face of the yoke 84.

Arranged upon the bottom of the casing 48 is a supporting-bracket 88,provided with a pair of apertured lugs 89, to which is pivotally securedthe lock-lever 90, retained in an inoperative position by means of thespring 91, connected to the bracket 88 and bearing against the lower endof the lock-lever 90.

The reference-numeral 92 denotes an engaging-lug adapted to be seated inone of the notches 93, arranged at suitable intervals upon the peripheryof the operating-wheel 59. The lock-lever is broughtinto engagement withthe wheel 59 by means of the operatinglever 94, provided with theengaging lug 94 and is pivotally connected at one end to the stud 95,and its opposite end extends through an opening in the bracket 88 and ispivotally connected to the curved operating-bar 96,as at 97. The bar '96extends across the casing 48 and is connected to the upper end of thelever 62 by means of the keeper 98, and the free end of the bar 96operates through the bracket 99 and carries a compression-spring 100.

In Figs. 4 and 5 a means is shown for operating the switch in case anoccasion may arise when the magnets were out of order or some troubleoccurring with the switch-th rowing circuit, and it consists of a clamp101, secured to the cable 39, and an auxiliary cable 102, connected tothe clamp, and a sheave 103, suitably mounted in the casing 32 andoperated by the lever 104, connected thereto and extending outside ofthe casing. By elevating the lever 104 the sheave is rotated, the cable39 is raised, and the switch-throw ing mechanism operated in the samemanner as by the switch-throwing circuit for moving the switch-tongue.

In Fig. 5is shown an operating mechanism 105 for a signaling device andwhich will be fully set forth in a copending application, this mechanismbeing operated by means of the antifriction-rollers carried by the yoke84.

The operation of the device is as follows: Assuming thatthe.switch-'tongue is in position as shown in Fig. 1, the trolley driftsover the breaker 7 into contact with the dead or circuitbreaking wire 9,when the motorman opens the controller and creates the switch throwingcircuit. This circuit is formed as follows: from the trolleywire 6 uponthe conductor 16 to the fuse-box, to the magnets, from the same upon theconductor 15 to the dead or circuit-breaking wire 9, through the trolleyand the controller to the ground. Upon the formation of theswitchthrowi-ng circuit the solenoid is energized, drawing the coreupwardly, carrying the armature 25 therewith, elevating the cable 39,operating the lever 62, moving the ratchetwheel 61, and revolving theoperating-wheel 59 until the same is locked by the engaging lug 93 ofthe lock-lever. The operationof the lever 62 imparts motion to the bar96 and brings the lever 94int-o engagement with the lock-lever 90. Whenthe wheel 59 is operated, one of the throwing-lugs 60 engages either oneof the antifriction-rollers 85 85 and operates the rods for throwing theswitch-tongue.

For example, assuming that one of the throwing-lugs 60 is adapted toengage the roller85, causing an inward movement to be imparted to therod 78, carrying the rod 52 therewith and moving the switch tongue, whenthe switch-throwing circuit is broken by the trolley passing from thedead or circuit-breaking wire 9 the armature 25 is released and thepiston falls by gravity, assuming its normal position, lowering the cordor cable 39 and permitting the various levers to resume their normalpositions by the action of the compression-springs.

The foregoing refers to the general operation of the device; but theoperation of the various parts will now be each separately described.

Assuming that the switch-throwing circuit is formed as heretoforestated, the solenoid is energized, causing the elevation of the core andarmature, and which will operate the piston within the air-cylinder forcushioning the stroke of the switch-tongue. This is obtained by reasonof the cup 42 on its upward movement creating an air-cushion in theupper part of the air-cylinder, the sides of the cup extending outwardlyand frictionally engaging the inner face of the cylinder and the airexhausting through the exhaust-valve 47. \Vhen the armature is released,the piston will fall by gravity, the sides of the cup contracting fromengagement with the inner face of the cylinder, and the flap-valve willopen, th us preventing any resistance from the air on the downwardmovement of the piston. When the piston is elevated, the air in theupper part of the cylinder will close the flap-valve. Vhen the piston iselevated by means of the armature, the cable, chain, or rope 39 iscarried therewith, passing over the pulleywheels 35 38, imparting motionto the lever 62, causing the pawl 63 to engage the teeth of theratchet-wheel (51 and revolve the same, the pawl being held inengagement with the teeth of the ratchet-wheel by the spring 64. Whenthe lever is operated by the cable 39, the spring 68 is compressed andheld in such position until the armature is released. The spring willthen expand and return the lever 62 to its normal position, as shown inFig. 8. It will be evident that when the ratchet-Wheel is revolved theshafts 58 will be turned, carrying the operating-wheel 59 therewith.\Vhen the lever 62 is operated, it will carry the rod 96 therewith,compress the spring 100, and cause the rod 96 to operate the lever 94,bringing the lug 94' into engagement with the lock-lever 90, and forcethe engaging lug 92 into one of the notches of the operating-wheel,locking the same. The release of the lever 62 is caused by the breakingof the switchthrowing circuit. It will then operate in an oppositedirection by the expanding of the spring 68, moving the lever 94 fromengagement with the lock-lever and permitting the expansion of thespring 91, withdrawing the lug 92 from engagement with the wheel'short-circuiting.

59 and allowing of the same to be operated, when the switch-throwingcircuit is again formed and the same operation will be repeated.

The rods 78 and 52 are provided with a butting means, consisting of thesleeve 74, collars 77 79, flanges 75 76 80, spring 82, and tie-rods S1for the following function: Assuming that there is an obstruction toprevent the operation of the switch-tongue, the end of the rod 78 willbe forced into the sleeve 74, owing to the compression of the spring 82by the flange 79that is, if the rod 78 is moved in an outward direction.If the rod is moved in an opposite direction it will carry the flange 76and collar 77 therewith and compress the spring 82. In both cases nomovement will be imparted to the rod 52, thus providing yieldingconnections that will allow of the operation of the switch-throwingmechanism without injury thereto when the switch-tongue is obstructed byan object of great resistance interposed between the tongue and therail. The spring 82 is of such strength that when the rod 78 is operatedmovement will be imparted to the rod 52 when the switch-tongue is notconstructed in the manner referred to.

It will be observed that when the solenoid is energized by the formationof the switchthrowing circuit, the mechanism for moving theswitch-tongue is operated and the same antomatically locked until thecircuit is broken, the release of the lever 62 causing the disengagementof the engaging lug and the locking-lever,this operation being automaticalso; but when the operating mechanism is released the switch-tonguedoes not move, but remains in the position to which it is thrown by theformation of the switch-circuit, the tongue only being moved when themechanism is operated. It will also be observed that by the arrangementof the insulator 41 between the piston and cable 39 it will prevent Byproviding the throwinglugs 60 on each side of the operating-wheel in analternate manner it will permit of the switch-tongue to be moved ineither direction, and, furthermore, by the arrangement of the yieldingconnections upon the rods 52 and 78 no resistance to prevent theoperation of the mechanism is afforded by any obstruction, as heretoforestated.

I of course do not wish to limit myself to the specific construction setforth herein, as various changes may be made in the details ofconstruction without departing from the general spirit of my invention.

Having thus fully described my invention, what I claim as new, anddesire to secure by Letters Patent, is-

1. In a switch operating mechanism, a switch-tongue-operating mechanism,a solenoid connected thereto and adapted when energized to operate saidmechanism, and pneumatic means for cushioning the movement of the coreof said solenoid.

2. In a switch-operating mechanism, the

combination with a switch-tongue and an electrical conductor, of anoperating mechanism connected to and adapted to operate said tongue, asolenoid connected to said mechanism and said electrical conductor andadapted when energized to cause the operation of said mechanism therebymoving said switchtongue, and means for cushioning the movement of thecore of said solenoid when the latter is energized.

3. In a switch-operating mechanism for electrical railways, thecombination with an electrical conductor and a circuit-breaker suitablyconnected thereto, of a switch-tongueoperatingmechanismconnected to andadapted to operate a switch-tongue, a solenoid interposed between saidmechanism and said circuit-breaker, connected thereto and'to saidelectrical conductor and adapted when energized to operate saidmechanism causing thereby the throwing of the switch-tongue in oppositedirections, and pneumatic means for cushioning the movement of the coreof said solenoid.

4. In a switch-operating mechanism, the combination with an electricalconductor, of a circuit-breaker suitably connected thereto, aswitch-tongue-operating mechanism, a solenoid adapted when energized tooperate said mechanism for throwinga switch-tongue, connections betweensaid solenoid, said circuit-breaker arid electrical conductor forenergizing the solenoid when a trolley of a car is in contact with saidcircuit-breaker and the controller of the trolley operated, and meansfor'cushioning the movement of the core of said solenoid.

5. In a switch throwing mechanism, a switch-tongue-operating mechanismsuit-ably connected to and adapted to operate aswitchtongue, a solenoid,suitable connection between said solenoid and asource of electricalsupply for energizing the former, forming thereby a switch-throwingcircuit for operating said mechanism and throwing a switch- 'tongue ineither direction, and pneumatic means adapted to cushion the movement ofthe core of said solenoid.

6. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination With the main andswitch rail sections'of a railway-track and an electrical conductor, ofa circuit-breaker suitably connected to said conductor, aswitch-tongueoperating mechanism, a solenoid connected to said mechanismfor operating the same, connections between said circuit-breaker, saidconductor and said solenoid for forming a switch-throwing circuitenergizing the said solenoid causing the operation of said mechanism,and means interposed between said solenoid and said mechanism forcushioning the movement of the core of the former.

7. In a switch-operating mechanism, the combination with an electricalconductor, of a circuit-breaker suitably connected thereto, aswitch-tongue-operating mechanism, a solenoid arranged above the groundand adapted when energized to operate said mechanism,'connectionsarranged above the ground between said circuit-breaker, solenoid andconductor for forming a switch-throwing circuit to operate the core ofsaid solenoid when a trolley is in contact with said breaker and thecontroller of the trolley operated causing thereby the operation of saidmechanism, and means for cushioning the movement of the core of saidsolenoid.

8. In a switch-operating mechanism for electrical railways, thecombinati n with an electrical conductor, of a circuit-breaker suitablyconnected thereto, a switch-tongue-opcrating mechanism,a solenoidarranged above the ground and suitably connected to said mechanism foroperating the same when said solenoid is energized, connections betweensaid solenoid and said conduct-or, connections bet-ween said solenoidand said circuitbreaker, said connections forming a switchthrowingcircuit for operating said mechan ism when a trolley is in contact withsaid circuit-breaker and the controller of the trolley operated, andpneumatic means for cushioning the operation of the core of saidsolenoid.

9. In a switch-operating mechanism for electrical railways, thecombination with an electrical conductor, of a circuit-breaker suitablyconnected thereto, a switch-tongue-opcrating mechanism, an operatingcable, chain or rod connected to said mechanism, a pneumatic cushioningdevice connected to said cable, chain or rod, and means including asolenoid arranged above the ground and connected to said cushioningdevice for forming a switchethrowing circuit for operating said cable,chain or rod causing thereby the operation of theswitch-tongue-operating mechanism.

10. The combination with the main and switch rail sections of arailway-track provided with a suitable switch-tongue and an electricalconductor, of a switch-tongue-opcrating mechanism connected to saidswitchtongue, yielding connections carried by said mechanism to preventinjury thereto when the switch-tongue is obstructed, operating means forsaid mechanism, a solenoid arranged above the ground and connected tosaid operating means, a circuit-breaker connected to said conductor,connections be tween said circuit-breaker, conductor and solenoid forforming a switch-throwing circuit energizing the said solenoid foroperating said means causing thereby the operation of the saidswitch-tongue-throwing mechanism, and means for cushioning the operationof the core of said solenoid.

11. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with an electricalconductor and the main and switch rail sections of a railwaytrackprovided with a suitable switch-tongue, of an operating-rod connected tosaid tongue, a main throwing-rod suitably connected to saidoperating-rod, operating means for said main throwing-rod suitablyconnected there- IIO.

to, a cable, chain or rod connected to said means and adapted to operatethe same, a circuitbreaker suitably connected to said conductor,electrical means arranged above the ground and connected to said cable,chain or rod and said circuit-breaker and conductor for forming aswitch-throwing circuit for operating said cable, chain or rod causingthe operation of said switch-tongue, and pneumatic means interposedbetween said electrical means and said cable, chain or rod forcushioning the movement of the former.

12. In a switch-operating mechanism, the combination with an electricalconductor and the main and switch rail sections of a railwaytrackprovided with a suitable switch-tongue, of an operating-rod connected tosaid tongue, a main throwing-rod suitably connected to saidoperating-rod, a sliding yoke suitably connected to said mainthrowing-rod and provided with a pair of antifriction-rollers, operatingmeans engaging said rollers and adapted to operate said yoke causing themovement of the said rods and switch-tongue in either direction, acable, chain or rod connected to said means for operating the same, acircuitbreakersuitably connected to said conductor, electrical meansarranged above the ground and connected to said cable, chain or rod andto said circuit breaker and conductor for forming a switch-throwingcircuit for operating said cable, chain or rod causing the operation ofsaid operating means, and pneumatic means arranged above the ground forcushioning the operation of said electrical means.

13. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with an electricalconductor and the main and switch rail sections of a railwaytrackprovided with a suitable switch-tongue, of an operating-rod connected tosaid tongue, a main throwing-rod suitably connected to saidoperating-rod, a sliding yoke connected to the main throwing-rod andprovided with a pair of antifrictiou-rollers, an operatingwheel adaptedto engage said rollers and operate said yoke causing thereby theoperation of said rods, operating means for said wheel, a cable, chainor rod connected to said means for operating the same, a circuitbreakersuitably connected to said conductor, electrical means connected to saidcable,chain or rod and to said circuit-breaker and conductor for forminga switch-throwing circuit for operating said cable, chain or rod causingthe operation of said means, and pneumatic means for cushioning themovement of said electrical means.

14. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with an electricalconductor and the main and switch rail sections of a railway-trackprovided with a suitable switchtongue, of an operating-rod connected tosaid tongue for operating the same, a main throwing-rod suitablyconnected to said rod, a sliding yoke connected to the said mainthrowing-rod and provided with a pair of antifriction-rollers, anoperating-wheel, a series of throwing-lugs formed integral with saidwheel and adapted to alternately engage said rollers causing thereby theoperation of said yoke and rods, operating means for said wheel, acable, chain or rod connected to said means for operating the same, acircuit-breaker suitably connected to said conductor, electrical meansconnected to said cable, chain or rod and to said circuit-breaker andconductor for forming a switch-throwing circuit for operating saidcable, chain or red causing the operation of said means, and pneumaticmeans arranged above the ground for cushioning the movement of saidelectrical means.

15. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with an electricalconductor and the main and switch rail sections of a railway-trackprovided with a suitable switchtonguc, of an operating-rod connected tosaid tongue, a main throwing-rod suitably connected to said rod formoving the same, a sliding yoke suitably connected to said mainthrowing-rod for operating the same and provided with a pair ofantifriction-rollcrs, an operating-wheel adapted when rotated to engagesaid rollers aud operate said yoke, a spring-actuated lever suitablyconnected to said wheel for rotating the same, an adj ustable cable,chain or rod connected to said lever for operating the same, acircuit-breaker suitably connected to said conductor, and meansconnected to said cable, chain or rod and to said circuit-breaker andconductor for forming a switch-throwing circuit for operating saidcable, chain or rod.

16. In a switch-operating mechanism, the combination with an electricalconductor and the main and switch rail sections of a railway-trackprovided with a suitable switchtongue, of an operating-rod connected tosaid tongue, a main throwing-rod suitably connected to said rod formoving the same, a sliding yoke suitably connected to said mainthrowing-rod for operating the same and provided with a pair ofantifriction-rollers, an operating-wheel adapted when rotated to engagesaid rollers and operate said yoke, a spring-actuated lever suitablyconnected to said wheel for rotating the same, a cable, chain or rodconnected to said lever for operating the same, means for automaticallylooking and releasing said wheel when said lever is operated, acircuit-[weaker suitably connected to said conductor, and meansconnected to said cable, chain or rod and to said circuit-breaker andconductor for forming a switch-throwing circuit for operating saidcable, chain or rod.

17. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with an electricalconductor and the main and switch rail sections of a railway-trackprovided with a suitable switchtongue, of an operating-rod connected tosaid tongue, a main throwing-rod suitably connected to said rod formoving the same, a sliding yoke suitably connected to the main IIOthrowing-rod for operating the same and provided with a pair ofantifriction-rollers, an operating-wheel adapted when rotated to engagesaid rollers and operating said yoke, a spring-actuated lever suit-ablyconnected to said wheel for rotating the same, a chain, oable or rodconnected to said lever for operating the same, means for automaticallylockin; and releasing the said wheel when said lever is operated, acircuit-breaker suitably connected to said conductor, means connected tosaid chain, cable or rod for cushioning the movement of saidswitch-tongue, and means connected to saidcushioning means and to saidcircuit-breaker and conductor for forminga switch-throwing circuit foroperating said chain, cable or rod.

18. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the

combination Withan electrical conductor and the main and switch railsections of a rail; way-track provided with asuitable switchtongue, ofan operating-rod connected to said tongue, a main throwing-rod suitablyconnected to said rod for moving the same, a sliding yoke suitablyconnected to the main throwing-rod for operating the same and providedwith a pair of antifriction-rollers, an operating-wheel adapted whenrotated to engage said rollers and operate said yoke, a spring-actuatedlever suitably connected to said wheel for rotating the same, a cable,chain or rod connected to said lever for operating the same, means forautomatically locking and releasing said wheel when said lever isoperated, a circuit-breaker suitably connected to said conductor, meansconnected to said cable, chain or rod for cushioning the movement ofsaid switch-tongue, a solenoid suitably connected to said cushioningdevice, and connection between said solenoid and said circuit-breakerfor forminga switchthrowing circuit for operating said chain, cable orrod.

19. In a switch-throwing mechanism,the combination with means forforming a switchthrowing circuit, of a switch-tongue-operating mechanismoperated when a circuit is formed and comprising in its construction apair of standards mounted in a suitable casing, an operating-Wheeljournaled in said standards, a sliding yoke mounted in said standardsadapted to be operated in opposite directions by said wheel, connectionsbetween said yoke and a switch-tongue, operating means for said wheel,connected thereto and to the means for forming a switchthrowing circuit,and pneumatic means for cushioning the movement of said switchtongue.

20. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with means forforminga switchthrowing circuit, of a switch-tongue-operating mechanismcomprising in its construction a pair of standards mounted in a suitablecasing, an operating-wheel journaled in said standards, a series ofalternately-arranged throwing-lugs formed integral with said wheel, asliding yoke mounted in said standards and carrying a pair of antifriction-rollers adapted to be engaged by the said lugs for alternatelyoperating said yoke in opposite directions, a spring-actuated lever foroperating said wheel, operating means for said lever, means forautomatically locking and releasing said wheel when said lever isoperated, means connected to said yoke for operating a switch-tongue, asolenoid adapted when energized by said switch-tongue-throwing circuitto operate said means, and pneumatic means for cushioning the movementof the core of said solenoid.

21. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with the means forforming a switch-throwing circuit, an electrical conductor, and the mainand switch rail sections of a railway-track provided with a suitableswitch-tongue, of a solenoid energized by said switch-throwing circuit,a rod 52 connected to said tongue and adapted to operate the same, amain throwing-rod, operating mechanism suitably connected to said mainthrowing-rod for imparting motion thereto when said solenoid isenergized by the switch-throwing circuit, yielding connections mountedupon said rod and adapted to prevent the operation of said rod 52 whenthe switch-tongue is obstructed to prevent injury to the operatingmechanism, and pneumatic means for cushioning the operation of the coreof the solenoid.

22. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with a suitableswitch-tongue connected to'an operating means therefor, of an electricalconductor,a circuit-breaker suitably connected thereto, a solenoidarranged above the ground, means for forming a switchthrowing circuitfor energizing said solenoid causing the operation of said mechanism formoving the switch-tongue in opposite directions, and pneumatic means forcushioning the movement of the core of said solenoid.

23. In a switch-operating mechanism for electrical railways, thecombination with the main and switch rail sections of a railway:

track provided with a suitable switch-tongue and electrical conductor,of acircuit-breaker suit-ably connected to said conductor, aswitch-tongue-operating mechanism con nected to said switch-tongue, asolenoid, means for forming a switch-throwing circuit for energizingsaid solenoid when a trolley is in contact with said circuit-breaker andthe controller of the trolley operated causing thereby the operation ofsaid mechanism,and pneumatic means for cushioning the movement of thecore of said solenoid.

24. In a switch-operating mechanism for electric railways, thecombination with the main and switch rail sections of a railwaytrackprovided with a suitable switch-tongue, of an electrical conductor, acircuit-breaker connected thereto, a switch-tongue-operating mechanism,a pair of solenoids arranged above the ground and suitably connected toIIO said mechanism, means in communication with said solenoids,conductor and circuitbreaker for forming a switch-throwing circuit forenergizing said solenoids when a trolley is in contact with saidcircuit-breaker and the controller of said trolley operated causingthereby the operation of said mechanism, and pneumatic means betweensaid mechanism and said solenoid for cushioning the movement of thecores of the latter.

25. In a switch-operating mechanism for electric railways, thecombination with the main and switch rail sections of a railwaytrackprovided with a suitable switch-tongue and an electrical conductor, of acircuitbreaker suitably connected to said conductor, aswitch-tongue-operating mechanism connected to said switclrtongue andadapted to operate the same, a solenoid connected to said mechanism,means connected to said solenoid, circuit-breaker and conductor forforming a switch-throwing circuit to energize the said solenoid causingthe operation of said mechanism for throwing the said switch-tongue,means interposed between said mechanism and said solenoid for cushioningthe movement of the core of the latter, and means for automaticallylocking and releasing said switch-tongue-operating mechanism.

26. In a'switch-throwing mechanism for electric railways, thecombination with the main and switch rail sections of a railwaytrackprovided with a suitable switch-tongue and an electrical conductor, of acircuitbreakersuitably connected to said conductor, aswitch-tongue-operating mechanism connected to said switch-tongue andadapted to operate the same, a solenoid arranged above the ground andconnected to said mechanism means connected to said solenoid,circuitbreaker and conductor for forming a switchthrowing circuit when atrolley is in contact with said circuit-breaker and the controller ofthe trolley operated and adapted to energize said solenoid, means forautomatically locking and releasing said switch-tongue-opcratingmechanism, and means for cushioning the movement of the core of saidsolenoid.

27. In a switch-operating mechanism for electric railways, thecombination with the main and switch rail sections of a railwaytrackprovided with a suitable switch-tongue and an electrical conductor, of acircuitbreaker suitably connected to said conductor, aswitch-tongue-operating mechanism connected to said switch-tongue andadapted to operate the same, a spring-actuated lever connected to saidmechanism for operating the same, an adjustable operating-cord, cable orchain connected to said lever for operating the same, a solenoidarranged above the ground and suit-ably connected to said cord or cable,means connected to said solenoid, circuit-breaker and conductor forforming a switch-throwing circuit for energizing the solenoid when atrolley is in contact with said circuit-breaker and the controller ofthe trolley operated, and pneumatic means for cushioning the movement ofthe core of said solenoid.

28. The combination of an electrical conductor, a switch-tongue-operating mechanism suitably connected to a switch-tongue, a solenoid connectedto said mechanism, means connected to said conductor and said solenoidfor energizing the same causing thereby the operation of said mechanism,and aspringactuated locking-lever adapted to automatically lock andrelease said mechanism simultaneously with the operation thereof.

29. The combination of an electrical conductor, a circuit-breakersuitably connected thereto, a switch-tongue-operating mechanism, asolenoid connected to said mechanism and to said circuit-breakerandconductor and adapted when energized to operate said mechanism, meansfor automatically locking and releasing said mechanism simultaneouslywith the operation thereof, and pneumatic means for cushioning themovement of the core of said solenoid when energized.

30. The combination of a switch-tongue-opcrating mechanism suitablyconnected to a switch-tongue, a solenoid connected to said mechanism andwhen energized adapted to operate the same, an electrical conductor, acircuitbreaker connected thereto, connections between saidcircuit-breaker and said conductor and solenoid for energizing thelatter when the trolley of a car is in contact with the circuit-breakerand its controller operated, means for automatically locking andreleasing said mechanism simultaneously with the operation thereof,means connected to said solenoid for cushioning the movement of the corethereof, and yielding connections arranged upon said mechanism for thepurpose set forth.

31. In a switch-tongue-operating mechanism, an operating-wheel 39provided with a suitablyarranged series of throwing-lugs, a lever 62 foroperating said wheel, a springactuated means for retaining said lever inan inoperative position, means for limiting the movement of said lever,means operated by said lever for automatically locking and releasingsaid wheel simultaneously with the operation thereof, a solenoidsuitably connected to said lever 62 and adapted to energize to operatethe lever, and means for cushioning the movement of the core of saidsolenoid.

32. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with theoperating-Wheel 59 suitably connected to and adapted to throw aswitch-tongue and provided with a series of notches upon its periphery,of an operatinglever 9e adapted to simultaneously operate with saidwheel, and a locking-lever 90 operated by the lever 94 and adapted to bebrought into engagement with the said wheel for looking the same.

33. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with theoperating-wheel 59 suiteaeea ably connected to and adapted to throw aswitch-tongue and provided with a series of notches upon its periphery,of an operatinglever 94: adapted to simultaneously operate with saidwheel, a locking-lever 9O operated by the lever 94 and adapted to bebrought into engagement with the said wheel for locking the same, andmeans connected to the said wheel to prevent the operation of theswitch-tongue when the same is obstructed and to allow of the operationof the said wheel.

34:. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with aswitch-tongue-operating mechanism connected to a switch-tongue andoperating means therefor, of a means interposed between the saidmechanism and said operating means for cushioning the throw of saidswitch-tongue consisting of an air-cylinder provided with a suitableexhaust-valve, a piston adapted to friction-ally engage the inner faceof said cylinder and provided with an air-passage, and a suitable valveconnected to said piston for closing said air-passage.

35. In a switch throwing mechanism, a switch-tongue-operating mechanismsuitably connected to a switch-tongue, an adjustable cable, chain or rodconnected to said mechanism for operating the same, a solenoid arrangedabove the ground and connected to said cable, chain or rod for operatingthe same, means connected to said solenoid and to a source of electricalsupply for forminga switch-throwing circuit for energizing saidsolenoid, and means interposed between said cable, chain or rod and saidsolenoid for cushioning the movement of the core of the solenoid.

36. In a switch-throwing mechanism,mechthrow a switch-tongue andprovided with a series of notches upon its periphery, a springactuatedoperating-lever adapted to operate said wheel, a spring-actuatedlocking-lever 90 operated by said lever and adapted to be brought intoengagement with said wheel for locking the same, and operating means forsaid lever.

38. In a switch-throwin g mechanism, an operating wheel suitablyconnected to and adapted to throw a switch-tongue in either directionand provided on its periphery with a series of notches, anoperating-lever adapted to rotate said wheel, means for operating saidlever causing thereby the rotation of said wheel, a locking-lever, andmeans connected to said locking-lever and operated by saidoperating-lever for bringingthe said lockinglever into engagement withsaid wheel.

39. In a switch-throwing mechanism, an operating-wheel, connectionsbetween said operating-wheel and a switch-tongue for throwing thelatterin either direction, a spring-actuated operating-lever adapted torotate said wheel, a locking-lever, connections between said locling-lever and said operating-lever for operating the formersimultaneously with the operation of the latter, and means for operating the said operating lever causing thereby the rotation of saidwheel.

40. In a switch-throwing mechanism, an operating-wheel,- suitable rodconnections be tween said wheel and a switch-tongue for throwing thelatter in either direction, an operating-lever connected to said wheelfor rotating the same, operating means for said lever, a locking-lever,connections between said locking-lever and said operating-lever forcausing the former to engage the said wheel simultaneously with theoperation of the latter, means mounted upon the said rod connections forpreventing the throw of the switch-tongue when the same is obstructed,and means for limiting the movement of the operating-lever.

41. In a switch-throwing mechanism, an operating-wheel provided on itsperiphery with a series of notches, a spring-actuated lever connected tosaid wheel and adapted to rotate the same, a locking-lever adapted whenoperated to engage in the notches of the said wheel, connections betweensaid lockinglever and said operating-lever for operating the formersimultaneously with the operation of the latter, a cord, chain or cableconnected to said operating-lever and adapted to operate the same, meansfor limiting the movement of said operating-lever, and means foroperating said cord, chain or cable.

42. Inaswitch-throwing mechanism, an operating-wheel provided on itsperiphery with a series of notches, a spring-actuated operating-leverconnected to said wheel and adapted to rotate the same, a locking-leveradapted when operated to engage in the notches of the said wheel,connections between said locking-lever and said operating-lever foroperating the former simultaneously with the operation of the latter, acord, chain or cable connected to said operating-lever and adapted tooperate the same, means for limiting the movement of said operatinglever, a solenoid adapted when energized to operate said cord, chain orcable, and means for cushioning themovement of the core of saidsolenoid.

43. In a switch-th rowing'mechanism, an operating-wheel provided on itsperiphery with a series of notches, a spring-actuated operating-leverconnected to said wheel and adapted to rotate the same, a locking-leveradapted when operated to engage in the notches of the said wheel,connections between said lockinglever and said operating-lever foroperating the former simultaneously with the operation of the latter, acord, chain orcable connected to said operating-lever and adapted tooperate the same, means for limiting the move ment of saidoperatinglever, a solenoid adapted when energized to operate said cord,chain or cable, and pneumatic means for cushioning the movement of thecore of said solenoid.

44. In a switch-throwing mechanism, an operating-wheel provided on itsperiphery with a series of notches, a spring-actuated operating-leverconnected to said wheel and adapted to rotate the same, a locking-leveradapted when operated to engage in the notches of said wheel,connectionsbetween said locking-lever and said operating-1e ver for operating theformer simultaneously with the operation of the latter, a cord, chain orcable connected to said operating-lever and adapted to operate the same,means for limiting the movement of said operating-lever, a solenoidadapted when energized to operate the said cord, chain or cable,anair-cylinder interposed between said solenoid and said cord, chain orcable, and a piston operating in said cylinder and suitably connected tosaid solenoid and said cord,chain or cable and adapted to cushion themovement of the core of said solenoid.

45. In a switch-throwing mechanism, an operating-wheel connected to andadapted to throw a switch-tongue in either direction and provided with aseries of notches upon its periphery, a spring-actuated operating-leveradapted to operate said wheel, a spring-actuated locking-lever 90operated by said lever and adapted to be brought into engagement withthe notches of the said wheel for looking the same, operating meansconnected to the said operating-lever, and an air-cylinder interposedbetween said operating means and said operating-lever.

4b. In a switch-throwing mechanism, an operatingwheel suitably connectedto and adapted to throw a switch-tongue in either direction and providedon its periphery with a series of notches, an operating-lever adapted torotate said Wheel, operating means connected to said lever, anair-cylinder interposed between said operating means and saidoperating-lever, a locking-lever, and means connected to saidoperating-lever and operated thereby for bringing the said lockingleverinto engagement with the notches of said wheel.

47. In aswiteh-throwing mechanism, an operating-wheel, connectionsbetween said operating-wheel and a switch-tongue for throwing the latterin either direction, a springactuated operating-lever adapted to rotatesaid wheel, a locking-lever, and means connected to said operating-leverand operated thereby for bringing the said locking-lever into engagementwith said operating-wheel for locking the same, means connected to saidoperating-lever for operating the same, and an air-cylinder interposedbetween said operating means and operating-lever.

48. In a switch-throwing mechanism, an operating-wheel, suitable rodconnections between said wheel and a switch-tongue for throwing thelatter in either direction, an operating-lever connected to said wheelfor rotating the same, operating means connected to said lever, anair-cylinder interposed between said operating means and said lever, alocking-lever, connections between said locking-lever and saidoperating-lever for causing the former to engage the said wheelsimultaneously with the operation of the latter, means mounted upon saidrod connecnections to prevent the throw of the switchtongue when thesame is obstructed, and means for limiting the movement of theoperating-lever.

-19. Inaswitch-throwingmechanism,anopcrating-wheel, connections betweensaid operating-wheel and a switch-tongue for throwing the latter ineither direction, an operating-lever adapted to rotate said wheel, meansconnected to said lever for operating the same, an air-cylinderinterposed between said operating-wheel and said lever, means connectedto said lever for automatically returning the same to an inoperativeposition, a locking-lever, connections between said operating-lever andsaid locking-lever foroperating the latter simultaneously with theoperation of the former, and means for returning said locking-lever toan inoperative position.

50. In a switch-throwing mechanism, an operating-wheel, connectionsbetween said operating-wheel and a switch-tongue for throwing the latterin either direction, a springactuated operating-lever connected to saidwheel for rotating the same, operating means for said lever, and anair-cylinder interposed between said means and said lever for obtaininga gradual movement of the switchtongue when operated.

51. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with a switch-tongueand an electric circuit, of an independent switch-throwing circuit, anelectromagnetic device connected to said independent circuit and to theswitch-tongue, and pneumatic means interposed in the connections betweensaid electromagnetic device and the switch-tongue for retarding theinstantaneous operation of the latter. a

52. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with a switch-tongueand an electric circuit, of an independent switch-throwing circuit, anelectromagnetic device connected to said independent circuit, amechanical device connected to said electromagnetic device and to theswitch-tongue, and means interposed in the connections between saidelectromagnetic device and the mechanical device for obtaining a gradualmovement of the switch-tongue when operated.

53. In a switch device of the character described, the combination witha movable switch tongue, of an independent switch- IIO throwing circuit,an electromagnetic device connected to the switch-throwing circuit andto the switch-tongue, and pneumatic means interposed in the connectionsbetween the electromagnetic device and the switch-tongue for obtainingagradual operation of the latter.

54:. In a switch of the class described, the combination with a movableswitch-tongue, of a switch-throwing circuit, an electromagnetic deviceconnected to the switch-throwing circuit and to the switch-tongue,andpneumatic means interposed in the connections between theelectromagnetic device and the switch-tongue for obtaininga gradualoperation of the latter.

55. In a switch-throwing mechanism, the combination with the switchtongue, of a switch-throwing circuit, an electromagnetic deviceconnected to said circuit, a mechanical device connected to saidelectromagnetic device and to the switch-tongue, and pneumatic meansinterposed in the connections between the mechanical and theelectromagnetic devices for obtaining agradual operation of theswitch-tongue.

56. In a device of the character described, a movable switch-tongue anda switch-throwing circuit, combined with an electromagnet arranged abovethe ground and connected to the switch-throwing circuit and to theswitchtongue, with pneumatic means for controlling the movement of theswitch-tongue when the latter is actuated.

57 In a device of the character described, a movable switch-tongue and aswitch-throwin g circuit, combined with an electromagnetic devicearranged above the ground, a mechanical device connected 'to theswitch-tongue and to said electromagnetic device,with pneumatic meansfor controlling the movement of the switch-tongue when the latter isoperated.

58. In a device of the character described, a movable switch-tongue, anelectrical circuit, and an independent switch-throwing circuit, combinedwith an electromagnetic device connected to the switch-throwing circuitand to the switch-tongue, with pneumatic means for controlling themovement of the switch-tongue when operated. v

59. In a device of the character described, a movable switch-tongue, anelectrical circuit, and an independent switch-throwing circuit, combinedwith an electromagnetic device connected to the switch-throwing circuit,a mechanical device connected to said electromagnetic device and to theswitch-tongue, and independent means for obtaining a gradual movement ofthe switch-tongue when the latter is operated. a

In testimony whereof I affix my signature in the presence of twowitnesses.

JOHN H. SPANGLER.

Witnesses:

JOHN NoLAND, E. W. ARTHUR.

